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Atalanta secured a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over Empoli, thanks to Charles De Ketelaere’s stunning performance on the night with two goals, including a late winner.
This triumph secures Atalanta’s 11th consecutive Serie A win, enabling them to end 2024 as league leaders.
The match began with Atalanta needing a win to maintain their top position, following Napoli’s earlier victory.
Despite missing key players, including Marten de Roon, Giorgio Scalvini, and Gianluca Scamacca, Atalanta demonstrated resilience.
Empoli, missing Mattia De Sciglio due to suspension, shocked the hosts by taking an early lead through Lorenzo Colombo’s deflected volley. However, Atalanta responded well, equalizing when De Ketelaere executed a diving header from Davide Zappacosta’s cross.
Atalanta took the lead just before halftime, courtesy of Ademola Lookman’s goal, assisted by Nicolò Zaniolo’s headed nod-down. However, Empoli leveled the score at 2-2 through Sebastiano Esposito’s penalty, awarded after a VAR review.
Despite struggling to break down Empoli’s defense in the second half, De Ketelaere showcased his skill by scoring the winning goal as he picked up the ball on the right flank, dribbled past four defenders, and fired a left-footed shot into the near bottom corner to seal the victory.
With this win, Atalanta continues their impressive run in Serie A, heading into the holiday season with renewed confidence as they aim to maintain their position at the top of the table.
